Xylitol Poisoning in Dogs

What is xylitol poisoning?

Xylitol is a naturally-occurring sugar alcohol that is found in plants, including fruits and vegetables. It is an FDA-approved food additive often used as a sugar substitute in some hard candies, gum, mints, syrup, jams and jellies, baked goods, nut butters, and vitamins. Xylitol can also sometimes be found in dental care products such as toothpaste and mouthwash, cough syrup, over-the-counter medications, sunscreens, cosmetics, and other products.

Unlike in most other mammals, xylitol is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream in dogs, resulting in a rapid insulin release. Dogs that ingest xylitol or xylitol-containing products (even in small amounts) can develop low blood sugar (glucose) levels (hypoglycemia) and liver damage. The clinical signs of low blood sugar can be mild to severe, ranging from lethargy to seizures and death.

Xylitol poisoning has not been reported in cats or other domesticated mammals.

What are the clinical signs of xylitol poisoning in dogs?

Depending on the type of product ingested, clinical signs of xylitol poisoning in dogs can be seen from 30 minutes to 18 hours after ingestion. Clinical signs can include vomiting, seizures, ataxia, weakness, depression, and coma. Affected dogs may have low potassium levels in the bloodstream (hypokalemia). Liver damage may become apparent several hours later, with clinical signs including jaundice (icterus), low blood platelet count, and high serum phosphate concentration.

How is xylitol poisoning in dogs treated?

Treatment for xylitol poisoning in dogs varies depending on the amount of xylitol consumed and the observed clinical signs. Since hypoglycemia can occur rapidly, vomiting should not be induced unless under veterinary supervision. Administration of activated charcoal is not recommended as it does not sufficiently bind xylitol. Blood glucose and liver enzyme concentration should be monitored. Dextrose may be given intravenously (IV) to treat hypoglycemia and medications intended to protect the liver may be administered.

What is the prognosis for xylitol poisoning in dogs?

The prognosis for xylitol poisoning is good for dogs that are treated early and do not develop any complications. The prognosis is guarded to poor in dogs that develop severe liver damage.

How can xylitol poisoning in dogs be prevented?

The best way to prevent xylitol poisoning is to keep xylitol and xylitol-containing products out of dogs’ reach to avoid accidental ingestion. Familiarize yourself with which products may contain xylitol and check ingredient labels. Since xylitol can be found in toothpaste, it is important to use toothpaste specially formulated for dogs, rather than toothpaste meant for people. Xylitol is also found in products such as nut butters, so double check the ingredient list before you put peanut butter in a chew toy.

For more information

Paws Off Xylitol: It’s Dangerous for Dogs, United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

There’s Xylitol in That Too? Pet Poison Helpline

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